Cambridge’s Park Street Cycle Park has become the focus of growing frustration from local cyclists after a surge in bike thefts. Despite its recent £multi-million revamp, users say the facility is anything but secure.
Omar Terywall, who runs the ‘Official Stolen Bikes in Cambridge’ Facebook group, expressed disappointment in the facility’s design. Two electric bikes were recently stolen from the site, despite being triple-locked. While one was recovered, the other remains missing. Terywall said many cyclists now refuse to use the cycle park altogether, citing a complete lack of trust.
The newly redeveloped Park Street site, reopened in late 2024, includes 239 bike spaces, automatic doors, and a well-lit interior. But for many, these features mean little if theft remains rampant. Local cyclists took to social media to voice their frustration. “Triple locks aren’t enough — I won’t be risking it,” and “I left my bike there once and someone stole my lights and tools. Never again.” were some comments left by users.
While Cambridgeshire County Council advises cyclists to triple-lock their bikes and use police-approved marking, critics say these steps fail to deter organised thieves. Terywall has called for motion-triggered sirens and flashing alarms to act as stronger deterrents.
Despite some recent arrests, including a man jailed after being caught stealing from Cambridge Station Cycle Park, campaigners and police admit that the majority of thefts go unsolved due to high demand and limited resources.
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